重新審視日治初期臺灣水圳圖資之發展以1903－1908年「埤圳台帳」為例

Abstract

By investigating the irrigation policy in Taiwan under early Japanese colonial rule, an important type of historical irrigation map enclosed in ＂Irrigation Registers＂ has been revealed. Through examination of these maps, this study discusses how the Japanese constructed their geographic knowledge of the traditional irrigation systems in Taiwan and represented such spatial contexts through maps. The analysis data are derived from the Irrigation Registers produced between 1903 and 1908 in the Archives of the Government-General of Taiwan (Taiwan Sotokufu Archives). The research method combines historical document analysis with cartometric analysis to elucidate the political, technological and cultural significance of Irrigation Registers. Research findings highlight that the Irrigation Registers were created to clarify the traditional irrigation properties developed in Taiwan under Ching rule. The primary purpose of the registers was to strengthen colonial government control over the existing irrigation resources of significant public interest, namely ＂the Public Ponds and Canals＂. To illustrate multiple ownership and stakeholder relationships involved with irrigation properties, the geographic information in the Irrigation Registers was based on rich textual descriptions. Additionally, the maps focus on the cross-village networks in traditional irrigation management; but without requiring strict accuracy of water routes. In summary, we conclude that historical map interpretation necessitates a thorough understanding of the textual contexts and land cultures behind mapmaking, beyond their geometric characteristics.